Croome is only a few miles from our house and we visited a few years ago and I fell in love with the beautiful house set in a swirling landscape where you could walk for miles and find something new at every turn.
Fast forward three years and we were keen to return. Croome is a National Trust property with a World War Two theme. Based around impressive house Croome Court which was originally the home of the Earls of Coventry, Croome is also heavily influenced by RAF Defford which was its nearest neighbour. RAF Defford was a secret airbase whose radar development revolutionised British Aircraft and the visitor centre at Croome is the only remaining Second World War hospital which was restored in 2007.
Our first stop was the RAF themed playground and the children enjoyed letting off some steam climbing, running, sliding and swinging.
Once the children had enjoyed the play area, we went off to explore. The natural playground first, where the boys cleverly used den building materials to have a game of cricket, while their sister did a spot of climbing.
A spot of colouring and crafts gave everyone a chance to cool down and there was information about the National Trust’s 50 Things to do before you are 11 3/4 and an adventure trail to do in the park. I even learnt how to do some different knots.
Remembering the beautiful walk from last time, I was keen to take to the leafy passageways that led out into the wide open space where Croome Court lies. The house itself is being renovated and is covered with scaffolding but when the house is open, you can climb to the top and take in the breathtaking views whilst drinking a cup of tea.
Whilst I enjoyed the views of Croome, the kids made the most of the open space to play football, tag and even a spot of kite flying.
A walk down to the river enabled us to find a few of the eight pheasant sculptures that are dotted around Croome and my daughter loved spotting the brightly coloured birds hiding in the trees.
Down by the river, we took in the beauty of the river and took a stroll over the newly opened Chinese Bridge.
We even managed to tick a few things off our 50 Things to do before you are 11 3/4 list.
- Climb a tree
- Fly a kite
- Climb a huge hill
Finally we took a trip to the RAF Defford Museum which is a fascinating look at the lives of some of the people who served at RAF Defford and the amazing work that took place there.
We had a fantastic day at Croome and there is such a variety of things to do and see there. The children thoroughly enjoyed the day and particularly liked the cafe where we had a delicious lunch and amazing cake for pudding. Hopefully, we are going to visit some more National Trust properties in the area too before the summer holidays.
We were given free entry into Croome and lunch. All opinions and images are our own.
We have been making the most of our National Trust member ship this year, I can spot some common themes coming through in all their properties and this is no exception. The play areas and things to spot in the grounds are a great way to engage families and a little crafting never goes amiss. My kids still never give me enough time to explore inside but life is always a compromise! Croome looks like a great place to visit and a good cafe for lunch too. Thank you for sharing with me on Country Kids.
Coombe Mill – Fiona Cambouropoulos recently posted…Country Kids from Coombe Mill
We love Croome too. It looks like you all enjoy the same things we do-although we’ve yet to go on the new bridge. That looks wonderful.
Iona@Redpeffer recently posted…One day I would like to……
Looks as though there’s something for everyone here. I’m glad the 50 Things….is running again this year. Must dig out our children’s booklets from last year.
Nell@PigeonPairandMe.com recently posted…Park Resorts Nodes Point, Isle of Wight